James Turnell

Professional Summary: Professor James Turnell

Professor James Turnell is a distinguished academic at the University of New England (UNE), Australia, with a notable career in economics, particularly focused on the Asia-Pacific region. His expertise and contributions have made significant impacts in the fields of economic development and policy analysis, with a special emphasis on Myanmar (Burma) and broader regional economic issues.

Academic Background and Degrees

Professor Turnell holds advanced degrees in economics, reflecting his deep academic grounding in the discipline. While specific details of his degrees and institutions are not fully disclosed in public records, his career trajectory and publications indicate a robust educational foundation in economics and related fields.

Research Specializations and Academic Interests

Professor Turnell specializes in:

• Economic development and policy in the Asia-Pacific region
• Financial sector reform and banking systems, with a focus on Myanmar
• International trade and economic history

His research often addresses critical issues of economic reform, poverty alleviation, and institutional development in transitioning economies.

Career History and Appointments

Professor Turnell has held several significant academic and advisory roles:

• Associate Professor of Economics at the University of New England, Australia, where he contributes to teaching and research in economics.
• Economic adviser to Myanmar’s government, notably working with Aung San Suu Kyi during the country’s democratic transition period, providing expertise on financial and economic reforms.
• Previous academic positions and consultancy roles focused on economic policy in the Asia-Pacific region (specific details of earlier appointments are based on general career overviews from public sources).

Major Awards, Fellowships, and Honors

While specific awards and honors are not extensively documented in public sources, Professor Turnell’s high-profile advisory role in Myanmar and his academic contributions suggest recognition within economic and policy circles. His work has been acknowledged through invitations to speak at international forums and contributions to policy development.

Key Publications

Professor Turnell has authored and co-authored several impactful works, including:

• 'Fiery Dragons: Banks, Moneylenders and Microfinance in Burma' (2009) – A seminal book exploring the history and challenges of financial systems in Myanmar.
• Numerous academic papers and reports on Myanmar’s economy, financial reforms, and regional economic issues published in journals and policy briefs (specific titles and years are not exhaustively listed in public domains but are referenced in academic databases).

Influence and Impact on Academic Field

Professor Turnell’s work has had a profound impact on the understanding of economic systems in Myanmar and the broader Asia-Pacific region. His research on financial inclusion and economic reform has informed policy decisions and academic discourse, particularly during Myanmar’s transition to democracy. His dual role as an academic and policy adviser underscores his influence in bridging theoretical economics with practical implementation.

Public Lectures, Committees, and Editorial Contributions

Professor Turnell has been actively involved in public and academic discourse through:

• Delivering lectures and presentations at international conferences on economic development and policy reform in Asia.
• Contributing to policy discussions and committees focused on Myanmar’s economic transition (specific committee roles are referenced in news articles and policy reports).
• Providing expert commentary in media outlets on economic issues in Myanmar, enhancing public understanding of complex policy challenges.